DEFYING DRUGS, A YOUTH AT A TIME

FORT WORTH -- Five years ago, Deezmond Henson was a young at-risk
student, seemingly headed for a brief, violent life on the streets.
But he went to a military-style summer camp as part of DEFY -- Drug
Education for Youth -- and things turned around. Now he's headed to
the University of North Texas.

On Saturday, Henson, 18, delivered a simple message to this year's 67
DEFY campers: "Stay away from drugs, and keep those you care about
away from drugs."

What Is DEFY?

A program aimed at 9- to 12-year-old at-risk youngsters that is
designed to discourage alcohol and drug abuse, school failure,
delinquency and violence. It is an offshoot of a drug-reduction
initiative begun by the Navy in 1992. A partnership with the Justice
Department's anti-drug, anti-gang Weed and Seed program was formed in
1996. This is the eighth year for DEFY in the Metroplex.

What Happened Saturday

The commencement ceremony for a weeklong summer camp recognized this
year's 67 campers. Also, 50 volunteer mentors -- gleaned from the
military personnel stationed at Naval Air Station Fort Worth --
attended, as did the campers' families.

What Was The Best Part

Upon hearing Henson speak about making it to college, the audience
erupted in applause.

What Was The Camp Like

Up at 0600. The style included military drills, said camp director
Eileen Dickey, an air traffic control chief for the Navy. Classes
focused on drug denial, peer pressure, role models and self-esteem.
Camp also included physical training and educational trips.

Was The Camp Mandatory Or Voluntary

All participants applied for the camp, as did a parent or guardian.
Mentors were selected from a group of volunteers.

What Comes After The Camp

The camp is Phase 1 of a yearlong, multistep program that includes
mentors continuing the relationship with the youths during the
following school year.